EU backs 17th round of Russia sanctions – POLITICO

EU ambassadors have agreed to new sanctions on Russia including targeting almost 200 ships that are part of the so-called shadow fleet.

Approval of the 17th sanctions package on Wednesday came as European leaders step up pressure on Russian leader Vladimir Putin to come to the negotiating table and bring an end to the war on Ukraine he launched in February 2022.

Defense and foreign ministers are expected to give their final approval on May 20. Two EU countries will need to seek approval from their national parliaments, an EU diplomat said.